Period pain and menopause

Period pain can be a symptom of the menopause

It is inevitable that most of us have probably perceived the menopause as an end to a vicious cycle of stomach cramps and abdominal pain. Unfortunately, due to fluctuating hormones, it is still possible to experience period pain without actually getting a period. In this page, our menopause expert Eileen Durward helps you to understand this phenomenon and explains how herbal remedies can help alleviate spasms and discomfort.

An introduction to period pain and menopause

Most women experience period pain at some stage during their life. It can be a common symptom among menstruating women and part of PMS (Pre-menstrual syndrome). However, as you approach the menopause, period pain may become worse again. One worrying symptom of the menopause is experiencing period pain, but having no periods. However disconcerting this may be, it is a common experience.

Period pain occurs when the muscles in the womb contract. This compresses the blood supply and reduces the level of oxygen in the tissues. This then causes you to experience pain in the lower abdomen, and sometimes in the back and thighs.

Why does the menopause cause period pain?

The menopause is a time when the hormones that regulate your menstrual cycle, in particular, oestrogen, begin to fluctuate. Naturally, this causes changes to your menstrual cycle, your periods become irregular and eventually stop. Alongside this, you may also experience period pain. However, it is also possible to experience period pain even when you are not having a period. Although it is not known exactly why this is, it is thought to be a result of conflicting messages being sent by your hormones. Eventually, as your hormones settle again, these symptoms should disperse.

It is important to remember that period pain may also be an indication of a more serious health condition, such as endometriosis or ovarian cysts, so if you are concerned, it is important to speak to your doctor.

What home remedies are there for period pain?

Generally speaking, if the period pain does not last for more than a day or two and is not too serious, then you should be able to treat it at home.

Exercise – although the last thing you want to do when suffering from period pain is move, sometimes exercise is beneficial. It helps to stretch and relax your muscles. Additionally, aerobic exercise gets the blood pumping faster around your body, releasing more endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller

Heat pad or hot water bottle – heat is an excellent relaxant, and applying heat to the tense muscles in the uterus can bring the quickest relief. You need to be careful however, that you do not burn your skin, particularly if you are using a hot water bottle

Warm bath or shower - much like the heat pads, warm water will help to relax all of your muscles. This will also give you the opportunity to de-stress

Diet – there are certain foods, such as those which are greasy and fatty, which are likely to cause abdominal bloating and cramps. If your tummy is already feeling tender, you should avoid any foods which are going to make it worse

Magnesium – this has been shown to help reduce muscle cramps. It acts as a muscle relaxant and also lowers the level of prostaglandins, a group of compounds which cause pain.

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If your periods are still regular and period pains are your main menopause symptom, use Agnus castus. This is the herb of choice for PMS in younger women, but can also be very useful for a woman in the early stages of the menopause, known as the peri-menopause.

What about conventional remedies?

Unless your period pain is severe and is interfering with your everyday life, then you should not need to resort to conventional medicines. However, if you are concerned you should speak to your doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions, such as endometriosis or cysts.

Generally, your doctor will suggest pain-killers or the contraceptive pill. You should discuss with your doctor which type of treatment is best for you, as you may find some to be more effective than others.

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Did you know?

You won’t get the menopause the minute you turn 50! The average starting age is actually between 45 and 55 and it can often depend on a number of factors including hereditary, weight and health, however every single woman will have an individual menopause.